Senaru is the traditional trailhead village on the northern slopes of Mount Rinjani, and its two best-known waterfalls sit in the forest just above it. Sendang Gile is the easier of the pair, reached on a short walk from the entrance and dropping in a tall, narrow veil of water down a mossy cliff. Tiu Kelep lies further along the trail, a longer walk through the forest that crosses streams and rewards you with a wide cascade falling into a cool pool at the base, where visitors can wade and take in the spray. The trail passes tropical forest, rice fields and viewpoints, and the water comes straight off the volcano, so it stays refreshing even in the hot season. This guided day tour from the Lombok coast covers both waterfalls, with pickup and transport included, so you do not have to arrange a driver or find your way along the trail. The booking page is rated 5.0 from 25 reviews, and the walk suits most reasonably fit visitors.
Why go with a guide
The paths are easy to follow in dry weather, but they can be slippery after rain, and stream crossings change with the water level. A local guide helps with the route, points out the forest and village life along the way and manages the entrance arrangements at the gate. Group tours from the coast also save you the drive up from Senggigi or the airport, which is a long day on its own.
What to expect
You walk first to Sendang Gile, and then continue to Tiu Kelep, with time to swim or paddle at the pool beneath the falls. Allow a few hours on foot, including photo stops. Expect uneven steps, wet rock and some mud, so wear sandals with grip or light trail shoes, and bring a change of clothes and a dry bag for your phone. The water can be strong near the base of Tiu Kelep, so swim only where the guide says it is safe.
When to go
The dry season is the most comfortable time and the trails are in better condition, but the waterfalls run all year. In the rainy season, flows are heavier and the paths muddier, and some trails can close after storms, so ask your operator to confirm conditions. Senaru is also the starting point for Rinjani treks and a good place for a coffee and a view of the mountain.
What to expect
The experience
A guided day tour to Senaru with transport, a short walk to Sendang Gile and a longer forest trek to Tiu Kelep, with time to wade in the pool.
Best time
The dry season for firmer trails; an early start so you reach the falls before the day trippers and the heat.
How long
A few hours on foot plus the drive from the coast, usually a long day in total.
Tips
Wear sandals with grip or light trail shoes, bring a change of clothes and a dry bag, carry cash for small entrance fees and tips, and follow your guide in the water.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Active travelers who want a forest hike and a swim in the mountains.
- Families
- Sendang Gile suits most families, but the walk to Tiu Kelep has stream crossings and slippery sections that are better for older children.
- Couples
- A shared, scenic hike followed by a coffee in Senaru with a view of Rinjani.
- Pair with
- Sade village on another day, a Rinjani day trek for the fit or a Gili day trip from the north coast.
- Time needed
- A full day with transport from the coast.
Good questions
Which waterfall is easier?+
Sendang Gile is the easier of the two and is reached on a short walk from the entrance. Tiu Kelep needs a longer walk through the forest and across streams.
Can I swim at the waterfalls?+
Yes, visitors usually wade or swim in the pool at the base of Tiu Kelep, but currents can be strong. Swim only where your guide says it is safe.
What should I wear?+
Sandals with grip or light trail shoes, quick-dry clothes and a swimsuit. Bring a change of clothes and a dry bag because spray and mud are likely.
Is the tour suitable for children?+
Older children who are comfortable walking on uneven ground will enjoy it. The paths can be slippery, so younger children may prefer the shorter walk to Sendang Gile.
How far is it from the coast?+
Senaru is on the northern slopes of Mount Rinjani, a long drive from the south coast and a shorter one from Senggigi. Choose a tour with transport if you do not have your own driver.
